# Expansion of Abu Dhabi and regional capital markets > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/expansion-of-abu-dhabi-and-regional-capital-markets > Updated: 2026-09-05T16:16:55.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2. The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) experienced significant growth in the first half of 2026, reaching a market capitalization of Dh2.8 trillion. This period was marked by increased investor participation, with foreign investors accounting for 77% of new registrations and institutional investors contributing 78% of the total trading value. Operational advancements included infrastructure upgrades, the introduction of new subsidiaries, and expanded global connectivity through partnerships with institutions such as HSBC and Morgan Stanley. Building on this momentum, the ADX has moved toward broader regional integration. The exchange signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Colombo Stock Exchange (CSE) to enhance capital market cooperation between Sri Lanka and the United Arab Emirates. This partnership focuses on sharing expertise, exploring cross-listing opportunities, and promoting bilateral investment. Concurrently, the Maldives Stock Exchange has launched a strategic plan for 2026–2030 to expand its financing ecosystem through equity and corporate bonds. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-05: Stock exchanges in Maldives, Sri Lanka, and UAE expand market connectivity The Maldives Stock Exchange unveils a 2026–2030 strategic plan to diversify financing, while the Colombo and Abu Dhabi stock exchanges sign a partnership to boost bilateral investment. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/stock-exchanges-in-maldives-sri-lanka-and-uae-expand-market-connectivity ### 2026-08-10: Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange reaches Dh2.8 trillion market value in H1 2026 The Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange reached a Dh2.8 trillion market capitalization in H1 2026, driven by 30,000 new investors and increased international participation and infrastructure upgrades. 4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/abu-dhabi-securities-exchange-reaches-dh28-trillion-market-value-in-h1-2026 --- Cite as: Expansion of Abu Dhabi and regional capital markets. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/expansion-of-abu-dhabi-and-regional-capital-markets